3-5 psi traditional water pads (6x8, 6x10, 6x13, 6x18, Jetski Docks, Hydrofoil Dock)
4-6.5 psi inflatables with central mesh (Splash Islands & Splash Pad)
5-7 psi yoga mat
When inflating your water pad, give someone a high-five; easy way to remember ~5 psi
Air pressure is relative to your preference or the amount of users. Relate air pressure to a sports ball or bike tire when squeezing with your hand/fingers to check firmness. Another way to know if you could use more air is if you see any creases in the pad when people are using it.
The firmer-the easier to step to/from the boat/dock and better performance.
YES, high pressure electric pumps are encouraged. If you already have a generic electric pump, you'll most likely have to hold it to the pad as well as top it off with the hand-pump. You might be able to use the provided hand-pump hose on your pump to twist lock-in the valve for hands free inflating.
Majority of boats are compatible with our 12v electric pump ("cigarette style plug-in").
This pump will automatically stop at desired air pressure.
Digital screen to see the air pressure (PSI or BAR) with buttons to add (+) or reduce (-) air pressure by .5. Note this pump will get slightly louder when it reaches approximately 1psi - this is normal. To remove the hose, gently twist. [Inflate time approx. 5 mins]
If you are inflating from the dock go with the 120v electric pump. Majority of boats don't have a standard outlet for a traditional two-prong plug-in. This pump does not have a screen or gauge but it will not over inflate, it simply reaches a point of not adding anymore air. To remove the hose, gently twist. *Because of the safety feature of this pump, we recommend topping-off air pressure using the hand-pump (~10 pumps) to maximize performance.* Hand-pumps are not needed but we do recommend comparing the performance with additional hand-pumps versus without. [Inflate time approx. 2 mins]
Both electric pumps can reverse suck the air out by switching the air hose from the inflate port to the deflate port.
Short answer: You can, but we don't recommend leaving it in the water for long-term when it's not in use and not in site.
Wear and Tear/ Longevity
Although Paradise Pads are built tough, and a lot of customers anchor their pad all season and love it for many years. That said, any product that lives in the water 24/7 is going to age faster than one that's taken out when not in use.
Constant rubbing against a dock, lift, ladder, rocks, or boat hardware can scuff, weaken seams, or (in worst cases) puncture the pad.
UV exposure from direct sun day after day can slightly fade colors over time but more importantly it can dry out materials faster than normal use.
Leaving the pad out overnight through storms or strong winds can stress handles & anchor points.
Rare but capable for water animal critters to use or snag at it.
Anchoring & Safety
If you're using the pad in one spot for the afternoon, we strongly recommend anchoring it instead of just tying it tight to the dock.
Use a rope to a small anchor (Jetski anchor, sandbag, mushroom anchor, or even a cinder block in some lakes).
Keep a little distance from sharp edges, bolts, and the dock face. This reduces unnecessary rubbing and accidental punctures.
You can run a second rope or bungee to the dock or cleat as a backup line, but don't let the pad sit there and grind directly on metal or wood all weekend.
Mother Nature (Wind, Storms, Fisherman, Etc.)
Strong winds can potentially flip, fold, or carry a pad
Changing water levels or boat wakes can push it underneath docks or lifts
We've had reports of fishermen casting near anchored pads
Anything left in the water for extended periods may see algae growth
Our Recommendation
for a long, happy life:
Enjoy it all day
Anchor it a safe distance from sharp structures (use an anchor)
Keep an eye on the weather
Pull it out of the water when you're done using it or leaving for an extended period
That gives you the best of both worlds - hours of floating fun without the sun, wind, and weekend chaos beat up your investment.
We normally say, if there is room for you to sit or lay down, it will hold the extra weight.
PAD SIZE/MODEL | HOLDS | BEST FOR | WEIGHS |
6' x 8' | 6 adults | 2-4 users | 33 lbs |
6' x 10' | 8 adults | 4-6 users | 40 lbs |
6' x 13' | 12 adults | 6-10 users | 49 lbs |
8' (circle w/ mesh) | 8 adults | 1-6 users | 36 lbs |
10' (circle w/ mesh) | 15 adults | 4-12 users | 48 lbs |
11' (hex w/ mesh) | 15 adults | 4-12 users | 47 lbs |
6.5' x 12' (rectangle w/ mesh) | 8 adults | 3-6 users | 48 lbs |
Our team would be happy to assist you deciding which pad model is the right fit for your family & friends.
These inflatable pads are made with the same PVC construction and drop-stitch technology seen in our Guiness World Record paddleboard. Many other brands of inflatable docks are easily punctured and made out of thinner or lower grade products. You will be astonished on how buoyant, rigid and sturdy they are!